There’s nothing quite like the tantalizing sweetness of honey combined with the boldness of garlic, especially when it transforms ordinary shrimp into a vibrant main dish in mere minutes. I first discovered this delightful recipe during a bustling weeknight, overwhelmed by the chaos of dinner prep. With my schedule packed, I longed for something that was both quick and satisfying—a meal that wouldn’t compromise on flavor despite the limited time.
Enter the 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp: a scrumptious, Asian-inspired dish that harmoniously balances a sticky glaze with perfectly cooked shrimp. Whether you’re looking for a high-protein option to power through your evening or simply want to impress with a meal that feels indulgent yet is deceptively simple, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Trust me, you won’t believe how easy it is to whip this up—all while keeping your pantry and time intact! Join me as I share this gem that you’ll want to make again and again.
Why is 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp a must-try?
Quick and Simple: With just a handful of ingredients, this dish can be prepared in under 10 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet honey and bold garlic meld together to create a rich glaze that elevates each bite of shrimp, transforming a simple protein into something extraordinary.
Healthy Protein: Each serving boasts high protein content, providing a nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on taste—a win-win for any health-conscious foodie.
Versatile Choice: Feel free to customize! Add in veggies, switch up proteins, or adjust the spice level to suit your taste; the possibilities are endless.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether for a romantic dinner or a family meal, this dish is bound to impress. Serve over rice for a complete meal, or as a show-stopping appetizer during gatherings!
Elevate your weeknight dinners by trying this easy, quick meal that checks all your boxes!
10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Use high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Cornstarch – This technique helps to “velvet” the shrimp, ensuring they stay juicy during cooking.
For the Sauce
• Light Soy Sauce – Provides a savory umami kick essential for the honey garlic balance.
• Honey – Sweetens the dish beautifully; feel free to substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic adds aromatic depth—don’t skimp on this star ingredient!
• Ginger Paste or Grated Ginger – Brings a warm, zesty flair; fresh or jarred works like a charm.
• Chili Flakes (optional) – A sprinkle adds some heat; adjust based on your spice preference.
For Cooking
• Vegetable Oil – Essential for frying; can be swapped with any neutral oil like canola or grapeseed oil.
For Garnish
• Green Onions – Adds a fresh, crisp touch; cilantro is a lovely alternative if you prefer.
Dive into this vibrant, quick-to-make dish that will undoubtedly turn your weeknight dinners into delightful experiences!
How to Make 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp
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Mix marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the light soy sauce and cornstarch. Toss in the shrimp, ensuring they are well coated, and let them sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
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Heat oil: In a non-stick frying pan, add vegetable oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.
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Cook shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and are just cooked through—be careful not to overcook!
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Add glaze: Drizzle in the honey and chili flakes (if using) over the shrimp. Toss everything together, ensuring the shrimp are perfectly coated in that delightful sticky glaze, then remove from heat.
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Garnish and serve: Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for garnish, and serve the juicy shrimp over rice or enjoy them solo as a delectable appetizer.
Optional: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for an extra healthy boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp
Fridge: Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This will help maintain freshness and flavor while preventing drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze leftovers in a secure, airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating: Gently reheat shrimp in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking. Add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture while warming.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy leftovers over rice or in a stir-fry to bring back that delicious flavor of the original 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp!
What to Serve with 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp?
Elevate your meal experience with sides that enhance the delicious sweetness and savory notes of honey garlic shrimp, creating a harmonious dinner spread.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant base that soaks up the sticky sauce beautifully, making each bite a delightful experience. A staple that never disappoints!
- Garlic Broccoli: Crisp-tender with a touch of garlic to complement the shrimp’s flavors, it’s a crunchy, nutritious addition that enhances your meal’s health factor.
- Mango Avocado Salad: The sweetness of mango pairs wonderfully with the shrimp’s glaze, while creamy avocado provides a rich contrast, making it fresh and vibrant.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: Crunchy and filled with veggies, these are perfect for a fun appetizer that balances the richness of the shrimp with a light texture.
- Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and zesty, this salad cuts through the sweetness while adding an invigorating crunch that rejuvenates the palate.
- Sesame Noodles: Tossed in soy and sesame oil, these noodles bring a nutty flavor to the dish, and their satisfying texture makes them an enjoyable pairing.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: A light drink option that adds a refreshing zing, cleansing the palate and brightening each bite of shrimp.
Each pairing adds a unique twist, allowing you to create a meal that’s not only quick but impressively delicious!
Tips for the Best 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp
• Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Avoid overcooking shrimp, which can make them rubbery; they should be opaque and tender.
• Velveting Technique: Use cornstarch to velvet shrimp for maximum juiciness; it creates a delightful texture that elevates the dish.
• Preheat Your Pan: Always heat your frying pan before adding oil to prevent sticking and promote even cooking of the shrimp.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and ginger to ensure vibrant flavors; dried versions won’t deliver the same punch.
• Adjusting Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the chili flakes according to your taste; this dish can be mild or spicy, depending on your preference.
Transform your quick meals with this delicious 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp that’s packed with flavor and nutritional goodness!
Make Ahead Options
These 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the shrimp in the soy sauce and cornstarch mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Additionally, you can prepare the garlic and ginger mixture and store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep the honey separate until you’re ready to cook; this ensures the glaze remains fresh and tasty! When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the garlic and ginger, add the marinated shrimp, and finish with a drizzle of honey for that mouthwatering sticky goodness—guaranteeing restaurant-quality results with little effort!
10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp Variations
Customize your dish with delightful twists that cater to your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in quick-steamed veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for vibrant color and extra nutrition.
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Spice It Up: Add a splash of Sriracha or chopped fresh chili peppers to turn up the heat—perfect for those who love a kick!
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Protein Swap: Switch shrimp for chicken or tofu to cater to different dietary preferences, maintaining that juicy flavor.
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Camping-Friendly: Take this recipe outdoors! Use a grill to give the shrimp a smoky flavor, enhancing that sweet garlic taste.
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Sweet Twist: Experiment with maple syrup instead of honey for a subtly different sweetness that pairs beautifully with the garlic.
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Zestful Addition: Incorporate lime zest into the sauce for a zesty finish—this bright addition will awaken your senses.
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Lower Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a lighter, low-carb meal that’s satisfying.
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Herb Infusion: Fold in fresh herbs such as basil or cilantro for an aromatic twist that elevates the dish further.
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10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely, for the best flavor and texture, I recommend using high-quality shrimp—look for fresh or frozen shrimp that is deveined and shelled. If you can, choose wild-caught shrimp as they tend to have a more robust flavor compared to farmed varieties.
How do I store leftover honey garlic shrimp?
Very good question! Store your cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing the container to maintain freshness. This method preserves both flavor and texture, making it easy to enjoy again!
Can I freeze the honey garlic shrimp?
Yes, absolutely! For longer storage, freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months. Make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. When you reheat, I often recommend warming them gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist and tender.
How can I avoid overcooking the shrimp?
Great question! Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so it’s crucial to cook them just until they’re opaque and lose their translucence. I suggest keeping an eye on them and cooking for about 1-2 minutes on each side. As soon as they turn pink, they’re ready to roll!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! This dish is versatile for various diets, but it’s important to keep allergies in mind. For instance, if you’re serving someone with a soy allergy, you can use coconut aminos or a gluten-free soy sauce. Also, if you’re preparing it for kids or those who prefer milder flavors, feel free to omit the chili flakes.
What variations can I make to this recipe?
I love how adaptable this recipe is! You can easily add quickly steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas during cooking for extra nutrition. Alternatively, try swapping the shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different protein option. And don’t hesitate to spice it up—you can use Sriracha or fresh chili peppers if you want that extra kick!
Savory 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp for Busy Weeknights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the light soy sauce and cornstarch. Toss in the shrimp, ensuring they are well coated, and let them sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
- In a non-stick frying pan, add vegetable oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and are just cooked through.
- Drizzle in the honey and chili flakes (if using) over the shrimp. Toss everything together, ensuring the shrimp are perfectly coated, then remove from heat.
- Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for garnish, and serve the juicy shrimp over rice or enjoy them solo as a delectable appetizer.